Society is not likely to claim me--at least, not in her Ladyship's absence.

My few friends can find me here." It was on his lips to ask her to let him walk part of the way home with her.

He might have this last pleasure since he was coming here no more, at least not in the old way.

But, as though her words had been a challenge, there was a clatter of wheels and horses in the narrow street below.
"A carriage," Mary said.

"It will be one of the fine ladies who are interested in philanthropy and politics." There was a rustle of silks and murmur of voices coming up the stairs.
Sir Robin sat holding his hat in one hand, vaguely annoyed.